Highly sensitive electrochemical sensor based Nd2O3/graphene for monitoring additive compounds in palm oil product

The use of additives, such as 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPDs), in palm oil products can impact the product's quality and safety. Therefore, it is essential to have a sensitive and accurate detection method. This study explored the hydrothermal synthesis of Nd₂O₃/graphene (Nd₂O₃/G) composites and their application as electrochemical sensors for detecting 3-MCPDs as additive compounds in palm oil products. Different techniques for characterization, such as Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), supply evidence supporting the successful assembly and positive arrangement of the Nd₂O₃/G composite. The sensor's electrochemical efficacy is assessed concerning the detection of typical additives found in palm oil (3-MCPDs). The sensor performance test is studied by voltammetric technique. The modified sensor showed good analytical performance for detection of 3-MCPDs with improving electrocatalytic activity, electron transfer, and reduced charge transfer resistance (R_ct). These modifications greatly enhance the sensor's ability to accurately detect 3-MCPDs with limit of detection of 0.65 μM. This developed sensor shows a great stability and accuracy, thus it has potential to apply in quality control and daily analysis process.